Carroll: This is the best feeling ever

The 35-million-pound striker headed home the winner in the 87th minute to complete a stunning comeback for Liverpool, who had fallen behind to an early Nikica Jelavic goal, only for Luis Suarez and Carroll to salvage a historic win.

Carroll has copped plenty of flack for his lack of goals since arriving at Anfield, but has now scored the winner in the Reds last two matches.

“It’s (scoring the winner) the best feeling ever and for the lads and the fans it’s even better,” Carroll said.

“We worked hard and to get the goal at the end was great.

“I had a few chances that I probably should have scored earlier but I kept at it and it was a great ball in from Craig (Bellamy) and thankfully I did score.

“I’ve had some criticism but I’ve just kept on going and to get the winner here is great.

“I believe in myself every day and I’ve got my chance now, I’ve got two goals in two games, it’s great.”

Carroll’s team-mates had nothing but praise for the striker after the match, with his captain, Steven Gerrard telling ESPN: “He takes criticism on the chin. That’s what we bought him for – to step up and score big goals – he’s delivered today.”

Jamie Carragher also hailed Carroll’s winning goal, suggesting the striker’s price-tag should be forgotten after such an important goal.

“A goal against Everton in a semi-final he’ll be remembered forever for that,” Carragher said. “That goal is worth 35 million pounds on its own for me.”

Goalkeeper Brad Jones played with confidence given that it was just his fourth outing as a Liverpool player and he also praised Carroll’s dedication to his game.

“He’s fantastic. The media knock him but as a guy he’s a top man, he works hard despite what the media want to say,” Jones said.

“He stays back, does extra training. He deserves this goal at Wembley.”